Perrys Angel Kisses

Snow Turkey

2010-11-22T18:37:00.000-08:00

Kiddos and I played in the snow on Saturday!! Since it isn't Christmas yet we decided to make a snow turkey!!

The power of a stubborn Woman

2010-11-22T14:30:00.001-08:00

The birch trees in Idaho Falls have been getting sick the last few years and one by one they die. Ours took it's last breath and slowly started looking like a scary dead tree. It lived right in the front yard and became a big eye sore. Oh I so hated seeing it. So I started calling to find out how to take care of the poor thing.

A few calls and I one estimate later I found out it would cost $300 + to cut down the tree!!

WHAT?!?!?!

I told Shan I would do it myself!!

Shan of course refused saying I could get hurt......

I didn't know how.......

and the big one!!!

I could hit the house, break a window etc.

Well, Shan went out of town and I went to work *giggle*

I had no ladder so I climbed the tree and would reach as high as I could and started sawing with my dead rusty blade. I would hide behind other branches and tucked my legs back when it was time for timber and only got a few bruises and scratches.

When I knew a branch would hit the house I tied dog leashes to the branch and then would tie that to a different tree in the yard so the branch would fall the way I wanted it to.

I would saw a little over 3/4 threw and then climb down grab the leash and pull in the right direction.

I got the craziest looks from neighbors and others passing.

Cars would slow and I had a real show going :o)

There were times my heart would pound and my body shake because of scary perches but I kept going.

I had one neighbor stop and say "I didn't know you knew how to do this" and I would respond with "I don't!!"

After 2 weeks I finally only had a stump and my little saw would not go all the way through it so I got my incredible neighbor over with his chain saw and the job was done!!

Cost?!?!

NOTHING!!

Gain?!?!?!?!

The right to say......

I AM WOMAN!!! HEAR ME ROAR!!!!

First day of School 2010

2010-11-22T14:21:00.001-08:00

Belle 5th Grade Mrs. Beljeni

Xave 3rd Grade Mrs. Dodge

Dax 1st Grade Mrs. Biggs

Alissa Kindergarten Mrs. Moeller

Alissa wanted to be in the picture with the big kids and since she doesn't go til 12:00 I hadn't put her together yet :o)

Wow! My last child is in school!! I have very mixed emotions about this but she is so very ready!! She is a social butterfly and had the best pre-school teacher EVER!!

Can you say TOO MUCH?!?

2009-12-14T13:01:00.001-08:00

I have no idea what the heck is wrong with me and what exactly I want in life. It seems I want more but then I want nothing at all. For example let's take today. And FYI I am blessed with female hormones out of whack right now too. I got a new puppy! Yes I already have a dog but I have been wanting something tiny to take care of and since having a baby would take a miracle or an indiscretion..... puppy it is. Plus Jett is such an incredible dog and he doesn't need to be watched 24/7 just walked and feed and cuddled. Anyway, today while trying to get the new puppy excited about peeing outside I have to use my extra happy voice. Well, Jett really LOVES my extra happy voice and knows it means something great. So I am telling Jagger (new puppy) "Let's go outside!!!" since he had been sniffing around and I could tell it meant potty time. So Jagger starts out the door. Then from down the hall at full speed here comes Jett and he blows through the kitchen and runs out the door stomping on Jagger on his way. Well, Jagger gets a paw hurt and he is scared to death so he runs the opposite direction back into the house. 2 seconds later there is a puddle on the floor that would have been outside if Jett wouldn't have come bounding. URG.... But this is NOT Jett's fault. Jett is not even a year yet himself. Things like this have been challenging. I try to play and tire out new puppy with play and of course that means you need to play with Jett too. It has been crazy fun trying to play hard tug-o-war on one arm and soft tug and shake with the other. I need to get some video of this!! Also with treat giving I have to make sure I make Jett do one of his tricks too so both get a treat and both earn it. Every time Jagger goes potty I reward him and then have to make sure I have Jett sit, lay down, shake, play dead etc. Potty training is also TONS of fun right now because it is FREEZING cold outside. You have to put on shoes and get your coat and get the puppy outside before he pees inside. They say to walk them out when you see them needing to go so they know which way to go to do it themselves. I REALLY doubt he could hold it while I am running around trying to get my coat on and find my shoes. There are times when I go out without shoes and coat and of course those are the time he decides to take FOREVER. Jett loves to come out and make him play with him while I am patiently waiting to get excited about yellow snow which is just lovely. You know how as a Mom and you take your kids to a pool and they don't know how to swim? You are constantly on guard making sure he or she doesn't drown. It is EXHAUSTING! I mean I have never needed a nap more then after just sitting pool side and just watching! So now take the feeling and multiply it by an entire day and see how you feel. I don't want pee or poo poo on the floor so it is a constant watch when he is not in his crate. I now look forward to crate time when I did when my kids were babies and they finally fall asleep. Jett always goes with me to pick up the kids from school. He was really excited and had to say hi to all of them one at a time. We start driving and he is making his rounds. He starts getting up into the front seat and one of his legs gets stuck. He is crying I don't know how to unstick him and I start shaking and pull off the road. Jett gets unstuck but now I am shaky and feeling sick because I have never heard Jett cry like that before. So did I really want all this responsibility?!?! I sure as heck thought I did and have been searching for that special poochy since April. What is wrong with me? lol I have tons of kids, a house to clean, meals to make, homework to help with, errands to run, kids to pick up, teeth to be brushed, bodies to be cleaned and I want to add not one but TWO dogs to the mix. I am so excited about all my kids being in school and all that I am going to be able to do or NOT do *wink* So why the heck am I adding more cute things to do??? I don't know what void I am trying to fill but I better figure it out soon before I fall over into a coma. Oh, a coma sounds just LOVELY!!!

Bad kitty or Bad Lissa?

2009-10-07T20:35:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well...
Alissa has been wanting a Kitty for a long Long LONG time
We have said no and Shan continues to say no
But Poky had a half price adoption which was only 42.50 for
Adoption
Spay or Neuter
Microchip
Med Vet check
Rabies shot
Carrier
Collar
and a DVD on how to take care of your kitty

So Nice Silly Crazy Mommy bought a Kitty
Alissa held about four before she found this one
She didn't bite her ears like some of them
She didn't meow like crazy
She didn't claw her and struggle
She just curled up her in arms and purred
Aww...
Well, then the nice lady said you can't take her til we spay her
Big tears and the nice lady says you need time to get ready for kitty like
Buy her food and toys
Alissa says I already did!! So can I take her
Nice lady says Nope
More tears... Mean Lady lol

Two days later..

We brought home kitty and Mommy is having second thoughts
Kitty and Jett's first meeting did NOT go well
AND....
I just walked into the bedroom and this is almost four hrs after getting Kitty
And sniffed and said WHERE IS THE POOP?!?!
Lissa is looking at me wide eyed from the bed
I look and see poop on the bed
I see poop on the pillow
I see poop on another pillow
and another
I said Lissa how did this poop get all over
She looks at me pulls back her blanket and starts crying and says
"She even pooped on me and I don't like being dirty!"
(I have to admit that I did giggle here)
I say Oh Lissa take off your jammies and let me help you

I gather everything and then see a little poop on the floor
I pick up a towel by it and it is all over the towel and the floor
Hmmmmmmmmmm!!!!

I get the towel, jammies, 3 blankets and 3 pillows and head to the laundry room
I start first batch of poopy laundry and go back up stairs to start on the floor

So the question still is Bad Kitty or Bad Lissa????

I again ask Lissa
"How did this happen?"
"Well, the kitty got into the litter box house and I wanted to hold her so I took her out! And then she pooped on me."

OHHHHH NOOOOOOOOOOOO

I say Lissa when the kitty is in her litter box you don't take her out
Okay Mommy
*sniffle*
And Lissa next time there is an accident please just come and get Mommy and don't try to hide it and clean it up okay
Okay Mommy

I already wish I would have taken the No road. Oh, well
Keep Moving Forward!
Right?!?!

Bytheway

I would like to introduce

PRINCESS

What a grand opening!!

Bring in the Clowns

2009-09-25T12:14:00.001-07:00

Belle's friend Emily had a birthday Sept 12
The theme was wear your Halloween costume
Belle wants to be a scary skeleton dude
Emily told her nothing scary Belle
So we decided on the clown outfit!

Belle had a great time with putting her hands into mooshy gooshy stuff
Going on a scavenger hunt
trick or treating for candy
and
telling Ghost stories!!

She is such a poser
She came up with all of these and more on her own!!
If she can get over her shyness I think she could be a fabulous actress!!

C is for Clown

Alissa's Teacher painted her face for C is for Clown day!!
Can I say again that she has an AMAZING teacher?!?!

Alissa can do the splits!!!
She can even get all the way straight!!
Next year when I am not paying for pre-school I want to get her into gymnastics or ballet.

Sleeping "pesky" Beauty

2009-09-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

Okay so this is a very sweet picture...
BUT
The before hand wasn't so sweet
I was sooooooo tired
I had 30 min before the next thing I had to do and I wanted to sleep for just a minute. So I set my cell alarm for 30 min and...
Mom
Mom
MOM
"Can I sleep with you?"
"Yes just hold still and be quiet please"
I would fall asleep and then..
Tap
Tap
Tap
Mom
Mom
MOM
"What"
"I am tired too so can I sleep with you"
"Yes Lissa, but please don't wake Mommy up"
Out again for maybe 2 min
Tap
Tap
Tap
MOM
"I am sleeping with you"
URG!
"Alissa you are not being very nice to your Mommy"
I get up I go to the bathroom
I come out and this is what I found
But now there is no time for Mommy to sleep
YAWN

First Day of School!!!

2009-09-25T09:53:00.000-07:00

Better late then never huh? lol
First pic is of Jett. Dax thought he should have a first day of school pic backpack and all!! :o)

Belle and Xave!
It was super hot on Aug 24th but my kids are really into hoodies!
Belle started 4th grade with Mrs. Black
Xave started 2nd grade with Mrs. Andrews

Dax
Daxton started Kindergarten this year!!!
So far he is loving school, his teachers and making friends.
He doesn't like having to wait til 12:05 to go to school and wants to go with Belle and Xave in the morning.
His teacher is Mrs. Ball

I was so excited!! Shan usually misses these moments but he came home early for lunch and was able to go with us to take Dax to his first day of school!!

Devin isn't big on the doorway pics lol But I loved this picture from the family photo shoot so I will share this one!!
Devin started 10th grade this year!!!!!!!
His first day was Aug 31st
Shailee is still going to school in Moses Lake WA
She is in 9th grade this year and loves that she and Devin are starting HS at the same time since here Devin was still in Middle school in 9th and in WA 9th grade is HS. :o) Shailee's first day was Sept 2nd

Alissa
Alissa goes to preschool Tues-Thurs from 1:30 to 4
She loves it and comes home every day with the cutest crafts!!
Her first day was Sept 8th

Mrs. Jana Maio aka "Teacher Teacher Teacher"
Alissa jumps from the car everyday yelling this and then running up to her and giving her a hug!!

Grabbing onto the rope to cross the street

Cute huh? Jana is full of fabulous ideas!!

I am so glad I am no longer working. My kids are growing up so fast. I can't believe how amazing they are!! I am just so grateful!!

September 11th :o(

2009-09-11T07:50:00.000-07:00

I just have to blog today and say that I LOVE my country!
I am so proud of people who have the courage and strength to fight for my freedom! I am so grateful for those who have died so I can be free.
Today before the kids went to school I had them watch the video's from 2001.
They had many questions and they are so pure that they don't understand why people could do something like this.
I loved the power of music and how it made me cry and also comforted me at the same time. Here is one of my favorite songs written for that sad day.

Yellowstone and Dennis

2009-09-09T08:50:00.001-07:00

Dennis our exchange student from Germany who lived with us 2 years ago came to visit us! Who would have thunk that he would ever want to come see our crazy household again :o)

We decided to have a family swim day at Lava Hot Springs. We got there and discovered two new very steep slides and new higher prices *gasp* Having two adults, a German, a Dalton and six kids doesn't come cheap but we sure did make some priceless memories. Dennis decided he would jump off the highest tower! YIKES!! He was so proud of himself that 10 days later when I dropped him off at the airport he was still wearing his bracelet showing he did it lol

There he goes! When I was 10 I jumped off the top of that too! I remember jumping and someone on one of the lower boards saying "It's just a little girl" In my head I said "I AM NOT LITTLE" then smack hit the water and wedgie!! :o)

Dennis wanted to visit Yellowstone. I asked all the kids who wanted to go with us and only the two youngest wanted to. We had to leave super early and Shan said I should just leave them sleeping that it would be easier for me but I grabbed them anyway. It was a a day of driving from 7am to 10pm and there wasn't one complaint out of them! They were the bestest little travelers!!!

Alissa enjoying the fresh breeze of yellowstone while driving 23 miles an hour. There was lots of construction and many MANY cars so we got to really see yellowstone at a pace that everyone should experience! It was sooo beautiful and green this year!!!

Bubbling mud

Small geyser

Waiting for old faithful after eating some grub

Alissa giving you all out there a little wink

Old faithful! Dennis watched while it gave off the little spurts it does before the big one. He kept pulling out his camera and I would say not yet it's just playing with us. After a little while of this he said maybe that was it. I laughed and said Dennis when it goes off you will KNOW!!

I have never been to the Yellowstone lake. It was sooo blue and beautiful!!

On the pier

By a sulfur pond

Buffalo

Breathtaking view! I was just in awe of the beauty!

We had rain and hail storms all day. We were very lucky though because we were always in our car when it happened and not out on some far away trail.

Which way do we go kiddos?

They thought they were funny when we came to this big rock wall and they said now this way Mom te he he

What are these kiddos looking at?

*Gasp* GET DOWN RIGHT NOW!! This is where nature is beautiful and scarily deadly.

Two little cuties sitting on a log

Traffic jam we were stuck in for about 30-40 minutes. The kids thought it was fun that they could be in the road. I got bit by mosquitoes all over my body but Dennis, Alissa and Daxton didn't get ANY!!

Dax and I thought it would be funny to look like we were getting hit by the car

Dennis and I

Alissa telling me what to do from the backseat
What a goofy goober

Alissa's first self portrait one handed camera shot *giggle*

Boy is it windy!! Alissa does NOT have chubby cheeks!
SLOW DOWN MOMMY!

Dennis wanted to take a turn at the wheel. He drives in Germany but "can't" in America when he asked me I thought of the movie Rainman..."Dad let's me drive slow in the driveway".... So I let him cruise at 25 miles per hour through the slowly moving traffic.

Tired kids. It was a long long day

We didn't eat much cuz the food was sooo expensive in the park. So this was a sight for hungry bellies when we drove into Rexburg.
It was a fabulously beautiful day!!
(FYI this all happened Aug 1-10th 2009)

Guilt Free!

2009-09-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

I had an absolutely wonderful day filled with...
Well, let's just say it was FILLED!!
I woke to my alarm going off at 6:00 am
If you know me I don't do early mornings but today was different!
I got dressed, grabbed a protein bar and with hubby headed to the gym
We worked out for an hour and then headed home
I woke up the kids and for the first time in a VERY long time made them do some jobs besides cleaning their rooms before going to school
So before 8:30 am the downstairs was cleaned and vacuumed
The upstairs cleaned and vacuumed
All bedrooms cleaned and beds made
Got breakfast on the table and then to school to drop off the first two kids and Shan in the opposite direction with another kid
Got back home and made more food for the two remaining kids
Alissa and I mopped the kitchen floor and bathroom floors
(lucky for me I bought something to clean my toilets automatically for 4 months!)
Dusted the entry table and washed all the nic nacks
Washed the shelves and dusted the picture frames
Washed front glass screen door and back door
Cleaned the bar downstairs, took the stuff from the hallway that has been sitting for weeks out to the garage, rearranged the kitchen, cleaned and straightened my desk and since that just wasn't enough I decided it was high time to clean out, vacuum and wash the car
So off we headed to the car wash and I LOVE that you can used your debt card now because with four younger kids I NEVER have quarters anymore
The car looked fabulous and I felt fabulous in my sparkly car
Home again to fix some lunch
then off to take Daxton to school
on the way home I headed to the dollar store for some dawn for the last dish I wasn't able to wash earlier
Got Alissa ready for her first day of pre-school and then on the road again!
(I will tell more of that in another email)
Home again and wondering what I am going to do with a free hour to myself with a clean sparkly house and a clean sparkly car... Hmmmm
Well, hubby came home for lunch!!
So we ate and yada yada yada :o)
I decided to go pick up the kids the long way with Jett so we took off running and I am glad we ran because we got there just in time for the bell to ring
I found three more kids and back home we went!
Now homework and reading time and today even the kindergartner had homework
Then got Belle and Xave ready for their bootcamp class at the gym and headed over to pick up Alissa from school.
Got a smiley Lissa and headed to the gym
Put the younger two into the nursey
Xave and Belle loved the class but got sweaty and hot and say they think they don't want to do it anymore.. I say let's try the kickboxing class on Thursday and see how that goes *wink*
Talked to two friends and then headed home to fix dinner
Made dinner, cleaned up dinner, kissed hubby and he headed back to work
(He works Monday and Tuesday til 10 now that I quit my job I am thankful for him!!)
Daxtons job today was picking up the toys outside so we could mow the lawn so out we went
After the toys were safe I started up the lawn mower and away I went
(I love how nice and green our grass is now! There were a few weeks this summer because of our sprinkler breaking and our basement flooding that our lawn kinda went downhill and you couldn't even tell where to set the lawnmover for the next row!! So I was so thankful to have three full bags of grass instead of just one with lots of green green grass cuttings)
I finished and Dax came out and wanted to jump
So all the kids came out and we played..
Who can stay standing the longest
Add on
and how high can you make me jump
Inside for drinks, PJs, teeth, stories and bed
And now I am sitting her talking to you all and I have just finished two cookies
GUILT FREE!!
I totally deserved them!!!

Take me out to the ball game!

2009-09-07T17:49:00.000-07:00

Take me out to the ball game
Take me out to the crowd
Buy me some peanuts and cracker jacks....

Well, this Mommy didn't want to spend the money for food at the ballpark so we had our ballpark grub before hand.
What a smart Mommy

Idaho Falls is home of the Chukars
It is a minor league and we have had a few of our local players go on to be pro! This is the statue in front of the Melaleuca Field

From the furthest away.. Devin, Dalton, Koy, Xave, Alissa, Dax, Shan, Shailee and Brielle waiting for the game to start

Watching the guys wet down the field

Here's my Ticket!! It was Texas Roadhouse night so my friend who waitresses there gave me some free passes!!

Cutest couple at the ballpark and the couple that was crazy enough to bring eight kids along! I say the more the merrier!

Xavey got the mascot to wave at him and took a picture

I love this pic of Brielle and Shailee!!
We only lasted one inning but they loved doing the pledge, watching the army men, the mascot, eating crackerjacks and yes they cheered.
Xave and Koy were the ones most into the game and they even understood it and could read the score board!!
When the kiddos got bored we just packed up and left.
We might have lasted longer but "smart" Mommy forgot about the extra suckers she put into her purse. That could have gotten maybe another half an Inning lol

A little bit of everything!

2009-09-07T12:07:00.000-07:00

This is my Lissa! She is one complete package of everything!

She is my my yoga partner

She makes me giggle EVERY day!

She absolutely loves to help me clean. Mopping and window/mirror washing are her favorites

The other day she had her first which shoe moment!!

"Mommy which shoe looks better with this outfit?"
Awwwww such my diva!!
She also wears dresses almost everyday, loves make up, loves painting her nails and going to the nail salon with me mmmm I wonder where she gets this?

She is my little bit of everything!
Love you my Spicy Little Diva

Sneaky Mommy

2009-09-06T22:24:00.001-07:00

It was the end of another long and very busy day
I needed a break!
I went to the computer but.... Kids were on it
I went to the living room for some couch potato fun...Kids were on it
I went to my bedroom for some relaxation... Hubby and sports
So I went downstairs to the basement and turned on the TV there
FYI I NEVER go hang out downstairs EVER
So a little over an hour goes by and the secret life of bees has me laughing and crying and the basement was nice and cool... Oh quiet bliss
Then I hear my cell phone ring upstairs
I get up to go answer it and climb the stairs
I get to the top and there is Xavey with the phone
Alissa giggles and jumps at me and says
"You sneaky little Mommy"
lol
They thought I was GONE and I was hiding in plain site
Xavey was trying to call me and find out where I had gone
I think I might be spending more time in my cool quiet basement!!

Jett!

2009-04-23T20:22:00.001-07:00

Our newest member of the family!!
JETT BLACK PERRY
*when ever I say his name I think of throwing up my hands and wiggling my fingers and saying.."Jett" now jazz hands lol*
He is an incredible litttle cutie
He is very VERY smart!
He knows, sit, lay down, crawl, bed, potty and come!
We are working on stay, off leash outside and staying by my side when walking and running
He is a Boxer/Shih Tzo mix
I KNOW!
How did that happen?
We are so glad it did though!!

Awwww... Sweet boy

He was done with the pics so he started making faces like my other kiddos
We can't wait to share him in person with all of you out there!!
Jumps and Licks
Perrys

Bring on Metallica

2009-04-23T18:51:00.000-07:00

It was Devin's turn for his bedroom makeover!!
Since his birthday was coming soon I decided to wait and do it on that day!
What a crazy day it was!!
I had no idea how long it would take.
The above picture was of before.
His wish was a metallica bedroom with some halo still.
The mattress you see under the bed is Daltons bed :o)

His closets doors were broken and falling down. I found some shower curtains and shower curtain rods and it turned out great!!

Devin said his favorite color is black and he wanted black paint!
I was afraid of how dark it would make a basement room but this idea turned out great!

Devin is going to take guitar in 10th grade next year!

And there ya go!!

Embrace

2009-04-10T22:08:00.000-07:00

I saw this posted on facebook and I absolutely LOVED it so I wanted to share it with all my peeps here too!! I for one am very much for live and let live and I embrace the differences in us all! How boring the world would be if we were all the exact same! I can't wait for a world where everyone is accecpted for who they are and for their inner beauty instead of being judged by what closed minded people think everyone should be.

ENJOY!

NOT

I don't judge either way!

I am probably going to butcher this but like my rockin friend says..

Life is like a box of crayons there are tons of different colors but we all have to fit into the same box.

1) Being gay is not natural. Real Americans always reject unnatural things like eyeglasses, polyester, and air conditioning.

2) Gay marriage will encourage people to be gay, in the same way that hanging around tall people will make you tall.

3) Legalizing gay marriage will open the door to all kinds of crazy behavior. People may even wish to marry their pets because a dog has legal standing and can sign a marriage contract.

4) Straight marriage has been around a long time and hasn't changed at all; women are still property, blacks still can't marry whites, and divorce is still illegal.

5) Straight marriage will be less meaningful if gay marriage were allowed; the sanctity of Brittany Spears' 55-hour just-for-fun marriage would be destroyed.

6) Straight marriages are valid because they produce children. Gay couples, infertile couples, and old people shouldn't be allowed to marry because our orphanages aren't full yet, and the world needs more children.

7) Obviously gay parents will raise gay children, since straight parents only raise straight children.

8) Gay marriage is not supported by religion. In a theocracy like ours, the values of one religion are imposed on the entire country. That's why we have only one religion in America.

9) Children can never succeed without a male and a female role model at home. That's why we as a society expressly forbid single parents to raise children.

10) Gay marriage will change the foundation of society; we could never adapt to new social norms. Just like we haven't adapted to cars, the service-sector economy, or longer life spans

Something to think about......

A sad day...

2009-04-09T11:33:00.000-07:00

Ozzy
February 21 2008 to April 8 2009
Yesterday I received a pretty bad phone call. Ozzy had been hit by a car on the busy 1st street road. I didn't believe it at first because he had just been laying on my feet while I was doing paperwork for Hot Spot. I went out to the backyard and called for him. When he didn't come I checked all the gates and all the holes he has gotten out of in the past and everything was secure. But when I got out to the spot there he was. The lady who called me was waiting and they had moved him off the road. He died immediately so there was no suffering. I carried him home and gave him a last little love and wrapped him in his blanket.
Today as I am going through our normal steps he is missed a every turn.
He slept with me every night snuggling up to my side.
Sometimes I would get cranky because it was like sleeping with a child not being able to move, but this morning I wish I could have felt that.
When it it was time to take the kids to school he wasn't there jumping all around asking to go with us to drop them off.
I turned on the TV to start my Yoga and the commercial that was on had a doorbell and there was no barking and running for the door.
While doing yoga Ozzy did not try to lick my face or climb onto my legs.
He was such a HUGE part of our daily lives and I don't know why but he loved me the very most. He was always wanting to be close to me and trying to jump onto my lap.
And DANG it he just barely started going to the bathroom outside all the time instead of just most of the time!!
I sometimes look at my life and feel like I am living some kind of dream. I still feel like such a kid and when I look at my six kiddos I still go am I really a Mother to these incredible people? To think that in a flash everything could be taken away from me. I am so grateful for everything I have but don't feel like Ozzy got enough time here with us.
LOVE YOU OZ!!

Exercise jolt! Enough said.....

2009-03-24T09:42:00.000-07:00

Things I want to do....

2009-03-02T10:21:00.000-08:00

I have started a list of things that I would
LOVE
to someday do!!
I have always wanted to go out there in the world to foreign countries, cruises and fabulous getaways. But I decided to think about things that are right here that I have never EVER done right here in my own country.

NO passport needed!!

Run in Central Park
See and climb the Statue of Liberty
See the Empire State Building
Hike the Grand Canyon
Go to San Diego to the Zoo, Sea World and Beach
Drive through Virginia and South Carolina
See an Indian Pow Wow
Go to Disney Land/World
Go to Florida
Experience warm clear blue ocean water
Swim with Dolphins
Run a Rock n Roll Marathon

And I will probably think of may more!!

I am soooo excited!! There is sooo much to look forward too!!

Mood today? Optimistic, grateful and adventurous!

Oh Mickey your soooooo FINE

2009-02-22T16:19:00.000-08:00

Got shoes?

(Mickey is the one that is not one of my kids in this photo ;o)
Dax and Liss look like little wet rats because they just took a shower in which I still need to go mop up)

I have been blessed by good friends!
Today my door bell rang and there stood Mickey
She asked if I would help her unload some shoes from her car that she wanted to get rid of since she is moving.
This is what was in my home after unloading about 10 bags!!
And guess what?!?! She still has about 250 - 300 left at home!
YIKES!!
Need shoes anyone?

Ozzy is 1 umm...or 7

2009-02-22T16:11:00.001-08:00

Ozzy's birthday was Feb 21st as well as Uncle Barry's B-Day and Grandma Carla's B-Day!
Spracklens invited us to Green Canyon to swim for the day. The kids were excited and then sad because they didn't think Ozzy should be alone on his birthday aww... lol

Here is Oz with all his presents! I love the dollar store!

I found a reciepe online for a cake a dog could eat. The kids were excited and we all helped make it. Well, turns out none of us liked it and neither did Ozzy

Happy Birthday Ozzy!!

Mardi Gras

2009-02-22T15:01:00.000-08:00

I celebrated my first Mardi Gras party last year! I was sooo excited for it to be back again and now **sigh** I again have to wait until next year.
The kids had a lot of fun with the beads.

Devin even got into the Mardi Gras spirit in between video games. Okay, I had him pause the game, then I forced the beads over his head and then I sat back and said silly things until I got this glimmer of a smile onto his face. Also can you see his sleeve? His friend has pet rats. Devin slept over at his house and placed his hoodie down by the cage. Come morning time they had eaten away half of the sleeve lol He still loves wearing it.

Happy Mardi Gras all!!!

My little Diva

2009-02-15T15:45:00.000-08:00

Alissa LOVES to sing
Alissa LOVES to dance
Ever since she was a baby she had this talent
While she nursed if there was music playing
She would start doing a little bum dance like a little caterpillar
If there is music on then Alissa is dancing
Just this year she has started memorizing the songs on the radio
You know after you turn off a song and get out of the car
The song keeps going in your head?
There has been countless times when while walking through the store
she is singing the last song and even going past what we heard
What a smart and talented girl

Happy Valentines Day!!

2009-02-15T15:36:00.000-08:00

I made heart shaped pink pancakes with
Strawberries
Strawberry syrup
and Strawberry whip cream for breakfast!

Koy was able to be there with us!
Xavey LOVES to pose

So does my Belle! Isn't her hand heart cute?
Whenever I see her in pictures she is so expressive!
It is so hard to believe she is shy at school

The other kids woke up Lissa because they were excited.
She still looks a little sleepy

BIG SURPRISE!!
I finally got Devin in a picture!
He is usually gone or hiding.
The other guy is his friend Dalton.
Hope you all had a lovely Valentines Day!

Ripping and Tearing

2009-02-15T15:12:00.000-08:00

These are the before pictures of our downstairs bar area

I have not been a fan of the peasants and plaid from the time we looked at the house

Here is Lissa scoring the paper to get ready for the wallpaper stripper

Kyler and Belle also helped! They LOVED being able to tear the paper off the walls!

Lissa decides to take a little nap

Belle got a HUGE piece

Walls after paper.. Kinda gross looking huh?

Walls after Lissa got done painting them :o)
I was sooo afraid of making the basement dark with the small windows
So I wanted to do a cream yellow color but it turned out pretty cream white and matches the ceiling

Here is the AFTER!!

LOVE IT!!!
Oh and now there is five bamboo bar stools instead of the woodsy bar stools
I placed the woodsy ones in the room with the wooden cabin type walls
And although I am NOT a country kind of girl I LOVE my wood cabin style walls.
They are soooo unique and awesome!!

Flintstones, meet the Flintstones

2009-02-15T15:06:00.000-08:00

I bought new mirrors for Shan and I's bathroom
Xavey walks in with Dax in tow and said
"Mom we are the Flintstones and they both started running around in their feet powered cars

Then they turned into picture frames

Being a kid is sooo much fun!
When I was little we would go behind the furniture stores and get the refrigerator boxes
We would then cut doors and windows in them
We would color on the curtains and tables and chairs
Then we would play in our little houses
We would even sleep in them outside!
Sometimes we would connect a bunch together and have a really big room
or make them more like a maze to crawl through
Our Cousin Jimmy was older then us and he was allowed to have a pocket knife
So Jimmy cut out all the windows and doors for us.
GOOD TIMES!

Super Bowl Party

2009-02-15T14:38:00.000-08:00

First things first
Before the game there was the National Anthem

And now the game!!

Don't they all just look soooooo excited!!!

This is the super bowl cake I made.
Funny story
Dax says "Mom is that supposed to be a football?"
Xavey says "Dax she's trying her best."
It still just makes me giggle

And of course there was TONS of food!!
Cake
Carmel popcorn
pop
Chips
Spinach Dip
Guacamole
Chicken Wings

Xavey learned the hard way not to use sharp knives.
I have told the kids over and over from the time they could understand
DON'T EVER TOUCH THESE KNIVES!!
I even store them up in the cupboard above the fridge
Well, Xavey used a stool and took a knife down and sure enough he cut a chunk out of his finger that took a VERY long time to stop bleeding.
The Force was NOT with him

Over all a great super bowl party!

I was rooting for the other team but still a good game
I only found a few commercials funny this year instead of a lot
What did you guys think?

To have a baby or not to have a baby

2009-02-12T09:04:00.000-08:00

So lately I have not been able to get the baby thought out of my head.
I know I know! I can't believe I am even thinking about it.
Six kids are a lot! And also it is sooo perfect being three girls and three boys. It has been almost 6 months since these thoughts have been entering my crazy head and I can't seem to get them out! There are soooo many reasons to not EVER get pregnant again...
1) Not sleeping
2) Not having control over your own body
3)Not being able to wear whatever you want because you need quick access to food or they just plain don't fit!
4) Well, back to number three and knowing I will blow up about 50 to 60 lbs.
5)Going back to NO independence and having life controlled by a sweet chubby little boss.
6) The feeling of being stuck
Okay so those could go on and on but then there are the FABULOUS, FANTASTIC, AMAZING parts.
1) The first moment you see him/her for the first time
(I could relive that moment over and over and over again)
2) The sweet smacking noises they make when they eat
3) The first tiny step
4) Trying to make them giggle and smile
oh those could go on and on and on and on
THE REALITY
Shan is...
Fixed
Neutered
snipped
castrated
cut
and pretty much broken in the baby making department
Yesterday, I decided I would just check and see what the cost and effectiveness of a reversal would be.
YIKES!!
6,000 to 10,000 dollars and only an 80% chance afterwards.
Or you could go for the syringe of sperm but that is costly too.
So, now that I know it is VERY impossible without winning the lottery maybe I will finally have some closure.
I think I am just a woman who was born with the baby making gene.
or maybe I am going through a 32 year old crisis of seeing my baby turn 4 next month and leaving me for school in a year and a half.
I also think of how wonderful it would be to have my kids enjoy the pregnancy and new baby process.
I had four babies in five years exactly to the date and they were really too little to really get into it.
But
I will love on and kiss my kiddos and enjoy the pieces out of them!
Because there are times when I go..
WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU THINKING!!!!

Just plain cute!

2009-02-12T07:49:00.000-08:00

I looked over and saw this and had to take a picture!
Cute boys
Cute pockets
Same cute little stance
These kind of Daddy son picture moments are priceless!

Buiding a fort!

2009-02-12T07:42:00.001-08:00

When Shailee was here during Christmas break we thought it would be fun to make a snow igloo fort with the trampolines help!
Yes, we are one of those people who don't seem to get it taken down every year....

We got all the snow pushed around it. We wanted to leave the snow that had fallen on top of the tramp there so it would be more cave like but we needed more help with the snow to make it all the way to the top so we just pushed it all off.

Good times!!!

Ouch again!

2009-02-12T07:11:00.001-08:00

Xavey and Lissa were playing and Xave was pulling her across a bed.
When he got to the end Lissa's eye came down right on the wooden edge.
OUCH!
So she had a very nice shiner.
Rocky had nothing on this girl!
Then just about 2 hrs later she hit her nose on something!
Sheez, poor girl.

(lol look at Lissa looking at me and trying to make the same face)
When we went sledding just a day after Lissa got her shiner.
We were trying to go down the hill and hold all the sleds together.
Well, sometime on the way down my arm got pinched.
I didn't even realize it until I was holding Dax's hand
and holding the sled when I thought my hand felt a little odd.
I looked at it and I had a blood goose egg on my wrist!
I of course starting thinking about people who cut their wrists to kill themselves and thought that it would just keep bleeding inside me.
I know I am a dork :o)
I called my Mom and sister Andrea because they were together but no answer. So I called my nurse friend and she came over and looked at it.
She said you need to put pressure on it.
To which I said "But it will hurt!"
Can you believe how much of a baby I have become?
Did you know that I had two babies without an epidural?
Did you know that one of those babies was 9 lbs 9 ozs?
Man what a baby I am!!
Alissa on the other hand was a very brave girl and just a kiss and a band aid makes her all better and puts a smile on her face.

Big Baby

2009-02-11T10:46:00.001-08:00

I am a big huge baby!
I am down to only a few sessions left for my laser hair removal.
I have since October canceled about three appointments to go.
I can't believe that I am being such a pansy!
Well, I have one today and then one more before I am done
FOREVER
So think of me today while I have eight follicles at once explode
over
and
OVER
and OVER
again for 1 1/2 to 2 hours
BUT..... I haven't shaved since October and I only have a few here and there mostly on my knees and thighs soo....
Yeah I am just a BIG BABY!

I am a sssssssnake

2009-02-08T09:14:00.000-08:00

I think the chinese zodiac signs and calanders are so interesting!
I just went through and read about all of our family and they are soooooo right on!!
So you guys out there who don't find them interesting I will not post them all right now
BUT....
There is always a big but! :o)
I am going to post them with whose ever birthday it is!!
Soooo......
Since mine has already come and gone I will start with ME!!

The Year Of The Snake

1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001

People born in the Year of the Snake are deep. They say little and possess great wisdom. They never have to worry about money; they are financially fortunate. Snake people are often quite vain, selfish, and a bit stingy. Yet they have tremendous sympathy for others and try to help those less fortunate. Snake people tend to overdo, since they have doubts about other people's judgment and prefer to rely on themselves. They are determined in whatever they do and hate to fail. Although calm on the surface, they are intense and passionate. Snake people are usually good-looking and sometimes have marital problems because they are fickle. They are most compatible with the Ox and Rooster.

Hmmmm.... Isn't that interesting???

And FYI Shan is a ROOSTER!! YAY ME!! :o)

Almost Famous?

2009-02-06T16:00:00.000-08:00

I can't believe this but....
I am going to be on a billboard!!
WHAT??
This started out as...
Will you be a spotlight member for the apple bulletin board?
Sure!
Then....
Will you be in the Idaho Falls magazine?
Ummm.... I guess
Will you let us put you up on our website?
Wow, thanks I am very flattered.
And now I wasn't asked but I find out that I am going to be on a billboard!
WHAT??? YIKES!!!
We have a friend that it is his job to get the billboards up and ready
So yesterday Shan and our friend were working out at the gym and he says...
"I got your wifes billboard done."
Shan "What?"
He gets home and I say
"WHAT!"
So the pic above is what our friend sent to show what it will look like.
Well, now all I got to say is I have HUGE motivation to stay skinny because if I get fat then ALL of Idaho Falls will know!! Oh, and my other thought is...
Where is my cut in your advertising with me all over it?
**wink**
Umm.. No seriously where is my cut??

My 32nd Birthday!

2009-02-05T08:22:00.001-08:00

I had a great idea for my Birthday this year!
I didn't want to spend it alone doing the same things I do every day
soooo....
I had my kids play hookie from school and we all went out and played!
We went to Leo's place for lunch!
The manager there (Robert) tans at Hot Spot so when my salad come out it had a candle stuck in it lol So cute!

I ate my food ALL gone so I could play on the toys!!

Belle and I LOVED going down the slides!

Bouncy Bouncy Bouncy

I wasn't as good as the kids were at earning tickets but I did try!
I even did the dance machine!
It took me into the second song to realize that I was doing all the steps way before I was supposed to lol
I should know better from playing Rock Band at home but....

Shan took me out before my birthday to my favorite White Water Grill where I got my fix of sushi!!
So on my birthday before his basketball game we went to my favorite fast place Bajios!!

My cake that my sweetie made!
No one else in my family likes my German Chocolate cake so this is how we have to make the cake so there is my kind and their kind lol

I had a great birthday!
Thanks for all the calls!
Cards!
Money!
Gift Certificate!
and mostly the LOVE!!

Nativity video

2009-02-01T18:16:00.000-08:00

Nativity

2009-02-01T18:08:00.000-08:00

Very sweet picture of Shailee and Dad

Daddy and his girls

Giving baby Jesus (aka Brielle) kisses

Hallelujah!

Peace on Earth

Good times!

Merry Christmas

2009-02-01T17:58:00.001-08:00

Here are our Christmas pics!
I know you have all been just waiting and waiting.... :o)

It was awesome to have Shailee here!!

Merry Christmas!

Dress up Christmas Dance

2009-02-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

This was a very fun Christmas dance at the Shilo!
It was also fun to dress up!

Shan and Clint lol I love this picture

80's Dance for the New Year

2009-02-01T17:50:00.001-08:00

New Year's 80's themed dance party!!
Shan and I didn't really get prepared for this party but our friends looked fantastic!! Groovey Baby!!

Bar Association Christmas Party

2009-02-01T17:47:00.000-08:00

This year's bar association Christmas party!

You better watch out!!

2009-02-01T17:24:00.000-08:00

Visit

2009-02-01T17:18:00.000-08:00

My Dad came to visit! And yes it has been a while since the visit but I have gotten behind again so....
I thought it would be fun to do a picture like Grandpa Cox's picture that is at Aunt Val's house.

Grandpa and Grandma Cox and kiddos

I loved this picture of Xavey and his Grandpa

Of course the visit couldn't be complete without rough housing!!

sledding

2009-02-01T16:53:00.000-08:00

We went SLEDDING!! It was soooo fun!!
We were all playing and I look behind me and there is Lissa with a big piece of snow on her belly. Silly girl.

We went with Spracklens and had a great time!
Go to Andrea's blog for more pics and videos.

Creative Xave

2009-02-01T16:49:00.001-08:00

Xavey set this whole thing up and then asked me to take the picture! He loves to do these kinds of things.
I love watching my kids grow and find their own creativity!
It is wonderful to get to know them each day while they learn.

What's that smell??

2009-01-21T10:28:00.000-08:00

So..
There was a smell in the boys room
and yes there usually is
BUT
This time is was soooo bad!!
I asked the boys if they had been peeing on the floor
No!
NO!
Well... Maybe once
Where?
So I shampooed the spot
Then decided to do the entire room just in case!! :o)
The smell was still there...
So I washed
Pillows
blankets
sheets
EVERYTHING!
The smell was still there.
I looked behind the dresser and found two pairs of dirty underwear
The smell was still there
I bought carpet powder
I sprinkled baking soda
The smell was still there!!!
Shan and I thought we would have to ripe up the carpet!
URG!
I was NOT happy with my little boys
Well, I lived with the smell for three days
I made the boys close the door at ALL times!
I would open the window during the day
This is no exaggeration!
There was a pungent urine Oder that would just knock you down and make you throw up a little in your mouth.
Well, on the evening on the third day
Shan says "Does is smell kinda like something is burning too?
I look up and sure enough
I find the culprit
There was dirty undies in the light fixture
HOORAY!!
Smell was gone within 24 hrs
Culprit was thrown away
**I am very VERY thankful that there wasn't a fire. If they would have caught fire it would have landed right onto Daxtons bed which would have made it bigger and we would have had a huge mess, money spent and possibly some burned kids... whew! Scary**
**Underwear was harmed in the making of this story**
**yellow print was also on purpose**

Ozzy gets a cut!

2009-01-10T11:27:00.001-08:00

At first after taking our big fluffy puppy who was in dire need of a hair cut because of mats of hair on his ears and legs :o( Poor little poochy.
We said um... This is NOT Ozzy! lol
And then at second look we thought our dog had turned into a squirrell. But now it has grown on me and I LOVE IT!!! It is sooo much better for all the snow and mud because he would get sooo dirty with his long hair. We did have to buy him some clothes to keep him warm though.

Here is our new little puppy! His eyes are sooo big and brown now!! Handsome boy! He looks like one of those toy dogs here that have the big face and head and a tiny little body. Okay Mom you are blinding me with the light.

Enough pictures!!

Devin gets a hair cut

2009-01-08T12:38:00.001-08:00

Devin has been trying to grow his hair long.

BUT

He has very curly hair

So he has had a pretty awesome fro!

Grandma Perry was giving

Dax and Xave a hair cut

and Devin asked to have one too!

And a HUGE surprise for me was

Vernean asked him if he wanted

Me or her to do it

He said either!!!

I am NOT trained in hair cutting so

For a 14 yr old that was a HUGE

Compliment!!

But

I let Vernean do it so he wouldn't be teased

Skype!!!

2009-01-08T12:04:00.001-08:00

Thank you Mom!!

Mom's present to all of us kid's this year was webcams!!

We can now talk and see each other!!

Wahooo!!!

Here is me talking to Andrea and Kayleigh

Yep they live in Idaho Falls too

BUT

we have too see each other ALL the time! lol

I have gotten to see and talk to...

Alysha

Kane

Friend of Alysha (can't remember his name)

Tami

Wyatt

Dillon

Garrett

Andrea

Kayleigh

Mom

It has been fun! But now I have to do my hair and clean my house before I talk to them!

Family Picture

2009-01-08T12:01:00.000-08:00

So we finally took a family picture!

But.....

It's blurry :o(

Oh well,

We will try again this summer!!

Ne Ner Ne Ner

2008-12-18T16:12:00.001-08:00

Hey all you people!!!

My kids school is better then your kids school!

:o)

Our school has offered tonight

to watch all kids potty trained and older!!!

They are going to...

Watch

Elf

Kung Fu Panda

They will eat

Pizza

Pop

Candy

Popcorn

And guess what??

Parents are NOT invited

AND

It is completely FREE!!

I am going SHOPPING!!!!

The last 11 yrs have been some of the best years of my life!

2008-12-13T08:01:00.000-08:00

December 13 2008

11 yrs later......

Three amazing people changed my life, turned things upside down and made me one of the happiest people today!

A date at Hells Canyon before we were married.
When we were leaving I shut my thumb in the blazer door.
I still have the ridges of it on my fingernail and it has never been able to grow very long.
I am grateful for it though because of the memories it brings.
While dating I also got my hand caught in a tramp.
I have never seen Shan and my Mom take apart a tramp so fast. I look like such a little kid here.
20 yrs old The weekend Shan asked me to marry him.
We were on our way to Tamara's wedding in Vegas.
We stopped by his Grandma Butchers house in Fruitheights.
He picked a flower out of the garden for me.
On the flower was my ring.
He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. December 13th 1997
It was 10 degrees outside!!
I was sooooo cold and sooooo happy!! Shan's parents John and Vernean Perry My parents Gregory and Melissa Cox My family Alysha, Matt, Barry, Kayleigh, Andrea, Me, Shan
Tami, Lonni, Mom and Dad Shan's family
Michelle, Audra, Jared, John, Me, Shan
Vernean, Tondee, Paul, Adam and Alma
(missing Kali, Jeremy and lil Jer, Burke, Maria, Daniel and Christina) One of our three wedding receptions.
We had one in Cambridge, Boise and Idaho Falls
So......
11 yrs
Immediate family of four within seconds
2 bedroom apartment in the one way streets of Idaho falls
Addition of a beautiful baby girl in 2000
An unexpected surprise of a new bundle of joy
causing a move to a bigger house in Jan 2001
9.9lb surprise arrived
Another 9.9lb addition in 2003
A cat named Pico
A Gold Fish named Bubbles
Tons of books on tape and long drives and lots of gas money
Caused another move in 2005 while being 8 months prego
A hubby in Boise for work
New addition of a sweet baby girl in our new home
Two years later we moved into our dream home
But we leaped before looking in our wallets
So another move
an awesome puppy named Ozzy
and Today we are finally in a home of our OWN!!

It has been an incredible ride!!
I can't wait to see what the next years will bring.
Happy Anniversary to US!!!!
I Love you Shan!!

AIDs Benefit

2008-12-09T18:04:00.000-08:00

I had the wonderful oppurtunity to be a part of the Breaking Boundaries fund raiser for AIDs.

I love finding ways to serve my community and the world in my own small way.

The feeling and the energy at this benefit was AMAZING!!

We had people of all walks of life there and all of them came together for one purpose!

I am awed by the people who work so hard and give so much of their time to better and help the lives of others.

I hope that I can someday do more.

Tis the season to serve and help others!! Let us all find a cause to support, fight for, donate and serve!

Blair is one of my very good friends! I didn't know until the benefit and the music started that he has taught ballroom as well as all kinds of dancing. We danced and at the end he told me I was a wonderful dancer to which I responded anyone can dance if they have a good leader. He made me took GOOD!! :o)

Cute Things

2008-12-09T17:55:00.000-08:00

Alissa was getting a waffle out of the fridge,

as she took it out part of it was under something.

So as she took it out it would break.

She finally got out the whole waffle from the sack in the fridge.

She then one by one took each one of the pieces you see here and cooked them in the microwave one at a time.

Xavey says to me "Mom how does that song go?"

"Which song Xavey?"

"I think it goes Silent night, hold me tight"

To which I responded

"That is exactly right Xavey"

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-27T12:01:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving 2008!!

Here is what we did today!!

Cheers and Toasts to everything we are thankful for while in our comfy PJs!!
Joking around in the Hot Tub!

We have some amazing little people!! Poor Lissa is getting tired.

All dressed up to go eat at Chuckrama! Hooray no cooking, no dishes and no clean up!!

What we are Thankful for in 2008....

A home that is finally ours!

Each other

Fantastic Friends

Pie

Painted toes

Stealing kisses

Good Mornings

Apples to Apples

Pinochle

Brownies

Gas being at 1.65

And all of you out there!

We also had a dance party that was too much

fun! I laughed and laughed. You have to watch

these kiddos move!! The other video is us doing

our Thanksgiving toasts.

HOPE ALL OF YOU HAD A WONDERFUL DAY!!

WE ARE SOOO THANKFUL FOR YOU AND WE

LOVE YOU!!!!

The Cremation of Sam McGee

2008-11-25T08:01:00.000-08:00

Poem: The Cremation of Sam McGee
by Robert W. Service

And Read by my Dad around this time of year! He does the best reading of this poem and if you haven't heard it from his lips then you are missing out!!! I have seen tears of laughter run down his face many of time with this one!

There are strange things done in the midnight sun
By the men who moil for gold;
The Arctic trails have their secret tales
That would make your blood run cold;
The Northern Lights have seen queer sights,
But the queerest they ever did see
Was that night on the marge of Lake Lebarge
I cremated Sam McGee.

Now Sam McGee was from Tennessee, where the cotton blooms and blows.Why he left his home in the South to roam ‘round the Pole, God only knows.He was always cold, but the land of gold seemed to hold him like a spell;Though he’d often say in his homely way that “he’d sooner live in hell.”

On a Christmas Day we were mushing our way over the Dawson trail.Talk of your cold! through the parka’s fold it stabbed like a driven nail.If our eyes we’d close, then the lashes froze till sometimes we couldn’t see;It wasn’t much fun, but the only one to whimper was Sam McGee.

And that very night, as we lay packed tight in our robes beneath the snow,And the dogs were fed, and the stars o’erhead were dancing heel and toe,He turned to me, and “Cap,” says he, “I’ll cash in this trip, I guess;And if I do, I’m asking that you won’t refuse my last request.”

Well, he seemed so low that I couldn’t say no; then he says with a sort of moan:“It’s the cursed cold, and it’s got right hold till I’m chilled clean through to the bone.Yet ‘taint being dead—it’s my awful dread of the icy grave that pains;So I want you to swear that, foul or fair, you’ll cremate my last remains.”

A pal’s last need is a thing to heed, so I swore I would not fail;And we started on at the streak of dawn; but God! he looked ghastly pale.He crouched on the sleigh, and he raved all day of his home in Tennessee;And before nightfall a corpse was all that was left of Sam McGee.

There wasn’t a breath in that land of death, and I hurried, horror-driven,With a corpse half hid that I couldn’t get rid, because of a promise given;It was lashed to the sleigh, and it seemed to say: “You may tax your brawn and brains,But you promised true, and it’s up to you to cremate those last remains.”
Now a promise made is a debt unpaid, and the trail has its own stern code.In the days to come, though my lips were dumb, in my heart how I cursed that load.In the long, long night, by the lone firelight, while the huskies, round in a ring,Howled out their woes to the homeless snows—O God! how I loathed the thing.
And every day that quiet clay seemed to heavy and heavier grow;And on I went, though the dogs were spent and the grub was getting low;The trail was bad, and I felt half mad, but I swore I would not give in;And I’d often sing to the hateful thing, and it hearkened with a grin

Till I came to the marge of Lake Lebarge, and a derelict there lay;It was jammed in the ice, but I saw in a trice it was called the “Alice May.”And I looked at it, and I thought a bit, and I looked at my frozen chum;Then “Here,” said I, with a sudden cry, “is my cre-ma-tor-eum.”

Some planks I tore from the cabin floor, and I lit the boiler fire;Some coal I found that was lying around, and I heaped the fuel higher;The flames just soared and the furnace roared—such a blaze you seldom see;
Then I burrowed a hole in the glowing coal, and I stuffed in Sam McGee.

Then I made a hike, for I didn’t like to hear him sizzle so;And the heavens scowled, and the huskies howled, and the wind began to blow.It was icy cold, but the hot sweat rolled down my cheeks, and I don’t know why;And the greasy smoke in an inky cloak went streaking down the sky.
I do not know how long in the snow I wrestled with grisly fear;But the stars came out and they danced about ere again I ventured near;I was sick with dread, but I bravely said: “I’ll just take a peep inside.I guess he’s cooked, and it’s time I looked;” . . . then the door I opened wide.

And there sat Sam, looking cool and calm, in the heart of the furnace roar;And he wore a smile you could see a mile, and he said: “Please close that door.It’s fine in here, but I greatly fear you’ll let in the cold and storm— Since I left Plumtree, down in Tennessee, it’s the first time I’ve been warm.”

There are strange things done in the midnight sun
By the men who moil for gold;
The Arctic trails have their secret tales
That would make your blood run cold;
The Northern Lights have seen queer sights,
But the queerest they ever did see
Was that night on the marge of Lake LebargeI cremated Sam McGee.

Go My Son

2008-11-24T18:33:00.000-08:00

Hey Andrea and Sibs! I don't know if all of you remember this or not but Andrea and I were talking about this the other day. Do you remember all the records we listened to as kids?? Andrea and I were singing the Indian one and I found it!! I can't figure out how to post it here but here is the link. The song starts at 1:50 so you can fast forward it to there. I LOVE that we have so many childhood memories that involve music. There isn't a week that goes by that a song doesn't jar a lost memory. Thank you also Andrea for finding the oldies country that plays on Sunday nights. I again forgot about it yesterday but when I do remember I enjoy it soooooo much!!! Also Andrea (sorry I guess childhood memories only involve you today **wink**) Look at my playlist!!! HA!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUJVQSu2kFY

Frustrated!!! URG!!!

2008-11-24T10:07:00.000-08:00

I am writing in red today to show my frustration!! I don't understand how come some sites make it sooo hard for us people who are not computer savey. I want a fun template and I have found some. I see that you need to go to your html and paste it but no it doesn't work. So I try another and another. So my blog is still the same ol same ol. I have also spent a good half hour trying to figure out how to get music to play. Can someone help me please??????? Pretty pleeeeaaasssee?? With a cherry on top and sprinkles and whip cream and chocolate fudge sauce??

Elf your kids

2008-11-23T19:27:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Country Elf Kids

2008-11-22T18:19:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Disco Elf Kids

2008-11-22T18:16:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Playdough!!

2008-11-20T14:55:00.000-08:00

Dax has been asking and asking to make playdough. I don't usually buy a lot of salt so that has been the problem. So finally today we had the salt and made the playdough!!

1 C cold water

1/2 c salt

2t cream of tarter

2T oil

Food coloring (your choice)

1 C flour

Mix in blender, add one item at a time (it will get very thick after flour is added) It may seem a little too runny to you but believe me it will work out just fine! :o)Cook in frying pan until thick and globby. I used a medium high heat. It doesn't take long and you will know when to get it out of the heat. Knead. ENJOY!!

FYI

There may be a mess to clean up.

Who am I kidding there WILL be a mess to clean up so enjoy the giggles.

FYI part two

I did double the receipe and I should have tripled it.

Wow! She can roll her tounge I wonder if she knows she can do that??

Kids take over the camera but this is a good picture because it shows what happens in my world every day. I am a Taxi driver and I am ALWAYS on call.

Here is a clip that Dax took of Lissa. It is short and sweet but I liked it!!

Tantric, Saliva, Jet Black Stare and Drowning Pool Concert

2008-11-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

As I told my family I don't post much because things are happening in our lives ALL the time and I don't have time enough to blog and keep up with it. So I am trying harder but this means that I might be blogging pretty much everyday!! If I don't I will fall far far behind again hence the plethora of blogs in the last few days.

Shan, Devin, Dalton and I went to the Saliva, Jet Black Stare, Drowning Pool and Tantric concert last night in Blackfoot. We had a blast and I saw lots of old friends. Shan had the camera so I am sorry to say that there are no pictures of him and Devin and Dalton ran away from us as soon as we got there so they wouldn't be standing by parents lol So you will have to just see pics of me. I did have some of the stage when they were performing but blogspot decided not to let me download anymore. Does this happen to anyone else??

Lead singer of Tantric
Lead guitarist of Jet Black Stare Getting my Jet Black Stare tank signedNever too old to ROCK!!

2008-11-19T07:48:00.000-08:00

Hey all of you out there!! My personal trainer gave me a doozey of a week! Does anybody want to do it with me???

Tuesday - Weights and Pilate's with Personal Trainer.

Run 8 Miles on your own

(I actually really loved the 8 miles it was a beautiful Sunny November 18th day in Idaho Falls Idaho which is very rare. The green belt was beautiful)
Wednesday - Swim laps for 45 minutes and do Ab work

Thursday - Weights and Pilate's with Personal trainer

Run 7 miles

Friday - Spinning class and Yoga tape

Saturday - Run 7 miles change the incline every 1 min

Sunday - 45 minutes on the elliptical

Yoga Tape

Monday - Stair climb for 40 minutes on fat burning mode at level 10

Let me know who if any want to try to do it with me!!!

Vote

2008-11-18T11:29:00.000-08:00

We didn't really talk much politics with our kids because they are a little too young for too much. So I was amazed with how interested they were and how excited they were. Belle and Xave came home from school talking about the election and wanting to make sure we voted. Belle and Xave both really liked Obama and talked about how he is awesome and plays basketball. I said what about McCain and Xavey says you mean that old dude? lol So after their discussion after school Dax came up to me and said what is in the above video. Too cute!!!

I also have to say that I am so thankful that I can vote! I read through stories of woman who couldn't vote for a long time and when they pressed the issue they were beaten, put in jail and some killed. I am so thankful for these woman for fighting for me and I will not take my ability to vote for granted.

Sibling pics 2008

2008-11-18T10:40:00.001-08:00

We have a tradition around Thanksgiving time to take new pictures of us "kids" We have a great time doing these and laugh and laugh all the way through them.

Matt hanging from the top, Alysha, Karissa, Andrea and Tamara Climbing trees!! Throwing leaves on Mom except for Andrea lol Aww... Mom and her baby boy

Spa Day

2008-11-18T10:11:00.001-08:00

Andrea invited me to go get a pedicure. And yes the kiddo's took over the camera and this is what we got.

Kyler lounging on the sofa and Kayleigh behind the plant reading a magazine
Closer... Closer.. Oh, a little too close... What movie was that quote from?? Alissa ready to paint her toes. She is such a girl! She gets so excited to do this and holds very still. She struts around afterwards knowing that she is pretty. Awwww.... Heaven Let's do the chicken dance everybody Andrea's pretty toes Um... It looks like I had a lazy morning and a surprise call from a sister and just crawled out of bed to come lol But what a way to start the day!!

The quote from Daxton's close up came from...........

Aladdin

Bedroom Makeover

2008-11-18T09:44:00.000-08:00

Ever since I have moved into my very own home I have been wanting to paint and decorate! I finally was able to get the paints to make this house my house!! I didn't even have to ask anybody if I could do it or not!! I JUST DID IT!! :o)

The room before had grayish carpet, gray walls and then with my Dark bedding I have to say this was a very dark room. So these of course are the before pictures.
AFTER I was so happy to find this bedding at Fred Meyer!! I bought the sea foam paint to match for the walls an then wanted the dark chocolate for the "headboard" The blue squares behind the bed were inspired by my Aunt LaVonne's plates. She was an incredible potter and artist. She even has a pottery place in Baker City dedicated in her memory. I thought this was an awesome way to display them. I am now very happy in my bedroom and it no longer feels dark and drab but light and happy. I still want to put a chocolate bench in front of the bed and a rug to go under that with both colors in it. Watch for updates, Alissa's princess room is next to be complete then on to the other kids and the downstairs!!! Tons of fun work ahead of me!!!

Food

2008-11-18T09:37:00.001-08:00

So many of my friends and family on here post what they make so I decided to post mine. :o) Here is some oatmeal that I made from scratch and NOT from a package lol I also added chopped apples, cinnamon and ground flax.

I have also been a vegetarian for over a month now. I decided to do it to see if I felt any different because of what I read about meat. I do feel great and most of the time just like I used too. I now feel empowered every day by my will power and also knowing that in my own little way I am helping the world without even leaving my house. I have also never eaten so many veggies!! I have gotten very creative with how I cook them up! Thanks Sarah for all your help you gave me!!

Charity Gala

2008-11-18T09:26:00.000-08:00

Shan and I had the oppurtunity to go to a Charity Event to benefit the Holy Rosary School. I loved being able to dress all up fancy. I have not been this dressed up since my wedding so it has been a long time. The auction raised a lot of money and we had a great time with our friends too!!

Picture taken by my Dax :o)
Me and half of my little population Shan and I and my Wal*Mart press on nails Picture by Xavey. Watch out Alysha my boys are looking pretty talented!! Me, Kelly, Marney,Jodi and Cheree my bunco buds Me taking a pic and what is funny is that the lady behind me whose name is Treasure is who I bought my dress from. Me and my friend Brendi. This is who I work for at Hot Spot Tanning Me and Cheree Me and Shandra

What a fun night. Cinderella for a day.

Fun with Devin, wilst Mom and Dad are away

2008-11-18T09:11:00.001-08:00

I love finding pictures like this on my camera! It is nice to know that my kiddos play so nice together when I am not around. I also love that my Devin who hides when the camera comes out and puts on his whatever look is having such a great time!!! And this is one of the reasons why we need to leave our kids every once in a while to play, help and watch each other.

Alissa and her big bro
I don't know whose feel these are. And by the way these are only a few of the pics I found on my camera. :o) Devin got thirsty. What? I didn't do it!! Belle Xavey and his big bro. Thanks for this wonderful surprise kids!! LOVE YOU!!

I am three and other cute pics

2008-11-17T21:37:00.000-08:00

Alissa fell asleep this way the other night! So cute! I have a picture of me doing the same thing at this age!!
Isn't she just so photogenic?? Very cute kids and a sweet little puppy I am three!!!

Sleep over with the Spracklens

2008-11-17T21:11:00.001-08:00

We had the Spracklen cousins over for a sleep over!! My kiddos love having them sooooo close

Kayleigh and Belle put on make up and did their hair and had to pose for the camera

Rarrrrrrrrr Xave and Koy said they were diggin a hole to China Kayleigh and Belle raked leaves. We also made chocolate chip cookies but that picture just vanished. Alissa, me and Shan stayed inside and slept in our nice beds Xave trying to do what Koy is doing in the next picture Isn't that a cool pic??

The kids out on the tramp for their sleep over. They thought my flash was really bright! It rained in the middle of the night and they all came in but left the sleeping bags and pillows outside. Lots of laundry to do the next day but it was worth it.

To Grandma's House we GO!!!

2008-11-17T20:23:00.001-08:00

Road trip to Grammy's!! I took my four little kids and Andrea's kids to Grammys all by myself!! They were great!!

Kyler fell asleep on the way there. I looked behind me and just had to take a picture. Kyler had many MANY more great picture moments this trip.
On the other side of the car this is how my Xavey looked while watching a movie. I think it took four movies to get there.

Bringing in a load of apples from the orchard.

My bro in a tree Taking down a wasps nest for my Mom to put up in her office Kyler Lately when you ask Alissa to smile for the camera she also has to pose by putting her finger somewhere on her face. Silly sweet girl I think Matt and Xavey look alike!! And I LOVE IT!!!! Xavey even runs flat footed like my bro Matt and Koy saying hello Fly Grandpa fly fly away.... lol Family joke Kayleigh and Belle saying hello Alissa cutting and sewing a quilt All the girls working on a quilt. It was Belle and Kayleighs idea and they did a great job and made a very nice looking pattern Warming up my Lissa out in the orchard My beautiful Mother Daxton with a bucket of apples Monkeyin' around What an incredible picture! You gotta blow this one up and frame it Andrea! I sent Matt up a tree for the last apple. While he was climbing I went up a ladder and grabbed it myself and then had him move this way and that way trying to find an apple that wasn't there! I found it hilarious! What a fun little barrel full of cuteness

THANKS MOM!!! Sorry we couldn't come and help with the wood! There is always next year!!!!!

Crazy Hair Day!!

2008-11-17T20:18:00.001-08:00

At Xave and Belle's new school they have all sorts of fun days!! I love how they get the kids involved and excited!! This was crazy hair day.

Visit from Grandpa

2008-11-17T20:01:00.001-08:00

Me and my Dad! Dad was able to come up on Halloween and spend time with Andrea and I and the Grandkids
Dad and I took count them 8 kids to Wal*Mart! Are we crazy or what???

Making rockets with Grandpa. The kids loved this! The wind was strong though and we lost a few.

Roasting Hot Dogs When I was a little kid we called this rough housing. We loved it and once a week we had a rough housing night. The only bad thing was that I was way too ticklish! :o) I loved that the kids got to do this with Grandpa.

Thanks for coming Dad! We really enjoyed it!!!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-17T19:36:00.001-08:00

Halloween 2008

Rocky (Reno 911), Chantel (His prisoner) Karissa (Peasant girl) Shan (Surfer Dude) Halloween isn't just for kids people! 30 and over need candy too! My Dad as Mickey Mouse! I loved that he did this but I had to tease him Alissa my beautiful Princess Daxton, My little Caterpillar Xave, Skeleton Man Brielle, My Witchy Actress. She would make a wonderful Actress. If she will ever let you close enough she can surprise you with her talent and creativity. Xave and Koy! I loved this picture! If anyone has seen Buffy the Vampire I thought Koy looked just like David Arquette! All the Spracklens and Perrys dressed up to go find their sugar overload

IT WAS A GREAT HALLOWEEN!!

Vegas!!

2008-09-29T20:14:00.001-07:00

Let's start this vacation in Vegas together with two of my favorite things! The water show at the Bellagio and Shan's bright blue eyes!!

I have been looking forward to this time with Shan for soooo long! I am very blessed to be able to go somewhere with my hubby at least once a year without kids. This year Shan's work meetings were in VEGAS!! Can you see up my nose?? lol Laying out pool side was one of our favorite day time things!! Alysha picked out this dress for me when I visited LAin 2005. This is the first time I wore it! I LOVED IT Alysha THANK YOU! We took advantage of every couple pic we could. I want a house full of us showing our love for each other! Vegas here we come!!!! TA DA!!! Going Dancing!! Going Dancing???? (Seven brides for Seven brothers :o)) Handsome man in front of a water fall In case you don't know. I LOVE BUDDHA'S!!! The first time on a dollar slot I put in $20 and got back $108!! Going dancing again!! And riding in a Taxi!! This small town girl thinks this is awesome!! I got this dress from a lady who tans at my salon! I have so many incredible friends!! Dancing at the palms. I didn't really like the music they played at the clubs, they played with them too much and added lots of beats and craziness. The songs were fabulous just as they were people!!! I love him!! I love him!! I LOVE HIM!!!! Waiting for a taxi After visiting Tami we went to Shan's baseball game. The woman between us is Colleen and she is an incredible baseball player. The guys fight over who gets her on their team. We met Mark and his wife for the first time in Indiana last year. His wife didn't come this year because of their daughters 15th birthday. I would have loved to have seen her but am so glad she is a woman who puts family first!! He just looked so good here I had to take a pic Hot man in a crazy tall hat City attourneys from all over America who love the great American game When we left for Vegas Idaho Falls gas prices were still in the 3.70's so when I saw this I HAD to take a picture of it!! I was sooo excited! I can't believe that I can get excited about it still being high but man this was low for me! And now I am going to sound very old but..... When I was in college gas was only 99 cents a gallon!!!! Idaho falls is now in the 3.50's too! HORRAY!! The Vegas art work is gorgeous!! Going swimming This is a picture of me and my gay man I met at the pool. He was so dang fun and funny. I could talk to him for hours! He told me he played the piano and could sing so I had to hear. Isn't this a cute little moment that was captured?? I love people!! Me and Gary. He played and sang to me the song "You are so beautiful to me...." He has a gospel CD out that we downloaded. Very beautiful voice. Eating at a buffet! The food was sooo dang good here. And yes I gained two pounds. I did try to workout while there but the gym cost $25 per day at Ceasars Palace!! YIKES!! So I ran the stairs (there were 29 floors) and did what I could in my room. We did walk a lot, but man the food trumped!!! YUM! We saw Penn and Teller. They were very funny and very talented. If you know who Teller is then you can see him somewhere behind me. Here is Penn. He is way taller then I thought. He is not standing on anything here. He also has a smaller face then I imagined. I saw this picture with hearts in it and had to take another picture with my honey. In the new Wynn Casino I love this picture of Shan So many picture oppurtunities! And so many willing people to take them for us I had to take a picture of me and Whoopi at the Wax museum. I get all my world and political information from the View! I can finally hold my own in grown up conversations because of those Women! At the airport going home. :o( We had such a great time! Thank you to my Mom, my sister Andrea, my friend Brianne, my friend Katrina and my friend Brendi for taking care of and watching my kids. I am sooo sorry that two of them ended up sick. I am so happy for all the incredible people in my life! I hope you all out there make alone time with your honey a priority because it is so important and just FABULOUS!!! Next year Miami Florida!!!

In Vegas with Tami!!!!

2008-09-29T19:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am really really REALLY slow or special or whatever you want to call me. I can't believe I again didn't post things backwards so again this post will be the opposite of how I really wanted it. Oh, well... I am NOT doing it again. But wish me luck for next time!! :o) Shan had work meetings in Vegas and I got to go with him! We were there from Saturday night to Thursday afternoon. On Tuesday I went and saw Tami and Kids!! There arent any pictures of Dillon because he was in school most of the time but I did see him too.

Here is Wyatt hiking through the Valley of Fire with me. He didn't want to go on a hike and said he was tired. So we start and he is climbing off the trail up the mountain, down the mountain, backwards and forwards and taking in way more hiking time then Tami and I lol
The rocks were incredible. Tami was so used to the heat she didn't even sweat and by the time we were done my shirt was SOAKED lol I had it running in my eyes and places you just don't want to know!!
Isn't this a cool tunnel through the big rocks!! Down this way Wyatt found a Horney Toad. I have a video of it somewhere
Wyatt showed me all the holes he found and told me what lived in them.
Again here is Wyatt climbing way above us while saying he is tired lol
This was a part of a house that a movie production built while doing a movie in the Valley of Fire. There has actually been quite a few made here. They had them not tear it all the way down so people can see it.
Awwwww.... Sisters are the best! Tami said she thought I looked just like Alysha in this photo. I told Shan that and he said it totally looks like me. What do you all think?
Another hole!
Big chessey smile from Wyatt
Tami coming down a very slippery slop. She did better then me though my flip flops made me skid like crazy. Tami said I scared her a few of the times I would slide for a ways and go AAHHHHHHHHH
Wyatt and me posing. He wanted to do the picture right here! Wyatt asked me if I knew who his Grammy Addie was. I said yes isn't she your Daddy's Mom? And he said No, she is his step Mom.. (there is a pause) and then I say Oh, really?? And he said Yes but don't tell my Mommy that I said that lol

By a big stuffed Dragon on the way to the Big Fish Tanks at Ceasers Palace
Garrett and Wyatt at the fish tanks
It was soooo great that Tami drove the hour down to see me and pick me up to take me to her house to visit. It was a short trip but we had two hours of driving time there and back to visit. THANKS TAMI FOR DRIVING FOUR HOURS FOR ME!!!! I LOVE YOU!!!

Wyatt by the big trojan horse in Ceasars Palace.

2008-09-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

You Are Cinderella!

Dignified and hard working. With a gentle and soft-spoken manner you have something many people don't. Patience. Even through the moments of heartbreak you're still able to hold onto all of your hopes and dreams. Bide your time; your dream will come true.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

Should I even try to catch up??

2008-08-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

I can't seem to keep up on this. Life is just going too fast for me to keep up with it. I can't believe that school is going to start this week! AHH I am not ready to give up my wonderful summer. Living in Idaho you KNOW that when school starts it means the cold and the snow is going to be coming right around the corner. I don't want to have to run on my treadmil again instead of enjoying the outdoors! **sob** Well okay enough whinning.Things you have missed are pretty much our whole summer! FYI it will probably be backwards and all out of order again. I need Andrea to teach me how to edit and move around the pics and how to put music on. I will post our green canyon after this post. There is just too many things I want to include in that one!!

Daddy's work party. Every year we get together as families and have great food, chatting, swimming, tennis, volleyball and horseshoeing. The kids took the pictures for us this year. There were TONS of just pop but I found this one that at least had Lissa in it. lol

We took the family to Yellowstone! They loved it but weren't big fans of walking. I really need to get them out more. They will have plenty of practice this year since they will no longer pick them up by bus because of gas prices. What a big family!!!

This is in Mammoth springs. There is a boiling river that flows into a cold natural river and you can sit where they both meet in hot tub like water. We did come home with sand and rocks in weird places. :o)

Happy Belley!

Waiting for Old Faithful. Apparently when a earthquake happened a bit back it messed up the Faithfullness. We were told anywhere from 1:56 to 2:14 and it errupted at 2:12. We bet on when we thought it would go and I was closest at 2:11. Walking, walking, walking, walking
Smaller geysers Both of us are not looking at the camera but at ourselves on the little screen lol These next few were taken at the Grand Funk Railroad Concert that was free for Taylor Crossing by the river days??? Something like that. We watched from the balcony at Shan's work. Afterwards they showed Transformers on a large screen opposite the band set up. Man the stage looks so far away here but we really weren't that far. We were happy to have Shailee with us for 5 weeks this summer! Grand Funk Railroad Showin' Shailee our firepit and roasting some dogs. There must have been a finger smudge on the lens in Devins area.
Xavey's seventh birthday!!!! Wow! They are getting so big sooo fast. Xave will be in 1st grade this year and be gone the whole day instead of half. I am excited that the days wont be so broken up but I will miss him.
Xavey is still into Star Wars and super heros and he loves his storm trooper helmet. The present he is holding was a scooter which all the kids want and we are slowing getting one at a time. They had some free play days at a gymnastic place. The kids had a ball here. We need to go play here more!!! You will see in the pictures after this that the kids had a blast before this happend. Yes that is blood. Alissa was watching a boat launch and she backed up off the dock and fell head first onto some concret. There was so much blood and I was panicing and my cell phone was dead. I borrowed a guys cell and called Shan and took her over to him. By the time we got there the bleeding had slowed and it was drying so I took her home. Gave her a bath and checked her out and it was surprisingly a very small cut.
Playing at the green belt and watching the boats. We need to find a friend with a boat! That would just make their day to actually be on one!!
Daddy's 39th birthday. Playing video games with his kids keeps him young and happy.
Wow! Look at all those kids he has!!! Brielle has wanted to cut her hair for a while now. She doesn't like the tangles that comes with longer hair. Kayleigh and Belle deicded to get their hair cut together (by the lady who cut and permed my hair as a younin') and donate to lock of love. These are the before pics but as you know I can't seem to think backwards so my blog always comes out the opposite of what I really wanted. Playing at Rigby Lake Belle got a new room downstairs to share with Shailee and I was throwing out things from Alissa's room that Belle needed. As I was going to pick things up I discovered something. Do you see it?? Where is Ozzy? lol And NO this was NOT a set up!!! Daxton's transformer cake
Popcicles and cousins!!! THE BEST!!
Birthday lunch? Dinosauer shaped chicken nuggets of course!! Happy Fourth of July!!! Ozzy stayed with a friend of mine while we went to my Aunt's Funeral. We came back to him all excited and dressed up! Her 8 year old daughter sewed him these for all the months of the year!! Impressive!! Playing dress ups at Grammy's House. Happy Father's Day!!! An incrediblely sad day.

She was an amazing second Mom to all of us and I am so thankful I have so many wonderful memories of her. LOVE YOU AUNT LAVONNE!! HOT DOGS!!! YUM!!!! Devin's 14th Birthday!!! Next year is a Drivers license!! AAAHHH!!!!! Well, that was pretty much our summer of fun. We did a lot but it still seems way too short. Here are some fun videos of our adventures too. Enjoy and hopefully I will do better at posting now that life may slow down but I wouldn't hold my breath. :o)

Exercise

2008-06-28T09:21:00.000-07:00

With the summer heat finally here I start seeing more of my thighs and bum in shorts and swimming suits. Last year I looked forward to this and was proud of how far I had come. This year I again want to hide away in cover ups and capri's. I am thinking of the seemingly fast fixes like Nivea's Goodbye Celullite Cream that I rub in and massage till my thighs and cheeks are a nice bright red color. I also start to look into pills like Alli or slimshots. Fully knowing that those things can't help and then I go dipping into the Hagendaz and flush away any progress made down the toilet. I know that losing the 70 pounds in 8 months was because I watched what I ate and I exercised nearly everyday! Am I doing these things?? Oh sure I am! I can remember maybe two tuesdays ago that I am pretty sure I ran outside and I sure did like watching that Hagendaz disappear last night. If I want to be happy with the way I look and be proud to play in the pool with my kids instead of sitting on the side in a cover up just watching I better get on the ball. Don't you just love that you know all the right answers?? I know exactly what I need to do and what I should be doing! Oh, I have the best excuses as to why it didn't happen today. I continue to wake up with a chip/ice cream/pop/fast food hangover going WHY WHY WHY did I do that???????? As I look at the pictures posted above you can guess which one I want to be like and now I have to forget the excuses and go break a sweat!

When I grow up....

2008-06-17T15:33:00.000-07:00

Today while we were driving to the gym to go swimming Xave said to Brielle.

"I am sooo glad I am not a girl because I wouldn't want to have the baby."

To which Belle said.

"Well, Dad's have to get up early and work Mon-Sat and only get Sunday off (which is what Shan does) and Mom's get to sleep in and only work if they want to."

lol I love my kiddos!!! So after we got home and I was still thinking of their cuteness I asked them... What do you want to be when you grow up.

Belle "I want to work at McDonalds"

Xave "I want to be Indiana Jones"

Daxton "I want to use this gun (a toy machine gun) and be a bad guy" (OH NO :o)

Alissa "I want to be Yoda"

Have a wonderful day and enjoy your kids!! Like the song says "Your gonna miss this" which already brings tears to my eyes.